Otaki-Maori RC 14 July 2023 – R1 – Johnathan Parkes

Evidence:

Following the running of Race 1 – Vets on Riverbank Maiden – an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 638(1)(d). Details are as follows:

In that he allowed his mount (LICORICE ALLSORTS) to shift in near the 800m when not clear of TSUNAMI which was dictated inward onto LINCOLN THE FOX which was checked and went back onto EL ATTITUDE whose rider was dislodged. 

Mr Parkes acknowledged he understood the Rule and confirmed that he did not admit the breach. The Adjudicative Committee advised Mr Parkes of his rights.

Rule 638(1)(d) provides: A rider shall not a ride a horse in a manner which the Adjudicative Committee considers to be careless.

Using available film, Stewards highlighted the incident. Approaching the end of the back straight, Mr Parkes has his mount approximately 4-5 horses off the fence, with Ms Hercock (TSUNAMI) slightly behind, and to his inside. Ms Hercock is 1 off to the outside of Mr Riddell (LINCOLN THE FOX). Ms Davies (EL ATTITUDE), is against the fence behind Mr Riddell. Ms Hercock then looks to improve with, in the Stewards’ opinion, room to do so. Mr Parkes shifts in, with Ms Hercock required to take action.  This creates pressure on Mr Riddell’s mount, who is checked. In turn, EL  ATTITUDE is hampered, with Ms Davies being dislodged.

Mr Parkes did not have questions for Stewards, but requested Mr Riddell be called.  Stewards called Ms Hercock to give evidence. She stated that her horse was ‘travelling’ and she was looking to improve, with Mr Parkes 3 wide. She observed that at the point of the turn, Mr Parkes had gone from 3 off to 1 off  when insufficiently clear and that, in her taking action, this created pressure on Mr Riddell’s mount. Mr Parkes contended that at the point at which she was looking to improve, he was already 1 off, not 3. Mr Riddell was called. He was of the view that the run was not there and was surprised that Ms Hercock put herself in that position.

Reasons for Decision:

The Adjudicative Committee considered all evidence, including film and witness input. That evidence provided by Ms Hercock is consistent with Steward contention. However, Mr Riddell’s account of events contradicts this. In determining whether the alleged breach is upheld, or otherwise, the Adjudicative Committee must be satisfied that the actions of the Respondent amounted to careless riding by virtue of allowing his mount to shift when insufficiently clear of TSUNAMI. The Adjudicative Committee remains of the view that this requirement is met and that this action led to Ms Davies being dislodged.  The contention of Mr Riddell that a run was not there, may well be correct, however the important point is, whether this view was a result of Mr Parkes’ ride. The Adjudicative Committee is satisfied that it was.

Decision:

The charge is deemed proved.

Submissions for Penalty:

Current Thoroughbred Racing Penalty Guide – February 2023, provides a starting point of 4 weeks suspension for careless riding causing a fall. Guidance is also taken from penalty history given comparable charge. To this extent, the Adjudicative Committee notes:

Ms K Hannan       27/10/2022 – 3 weeks

Mr O Bosson       15/10/2022 – 6 weeks

Mr N Parmar        29/04/2022 – 4 weeks

Mr K Asano          19/03/2022 – 4 weeks

Ms K Hercock      19/03/2022 – 4 weeks

Mr R Hannam      11/12/2021 – 4 weeks

Reasons for Penalty:

It is acknowledged that each of the aforementioned does involve factors particular to each incident. However, there has been consistency in penalties imposed – primarily reflecting the ultimate consequence of the careless ride. To that end, the Adjudicative Committee adopted a four week suspension as an appropriate penalty. Mr Parkes sough deferment to satisfy riding commitments on 22nd July 2023 at New Plymouth.

Conclusion:

Mr Parkes’ request for deferment is granted with his Licence to ride in races suspended for 4 weeks, from the close of racing on 22nd July 2023, up to and including 19th August 2023.